from east to west, finding balance in the space between.

Harvard

I’ve been described, rather diplomatically, as having “a bias toward action.” From age 12-22, my most valuable possession was my agenda… and it wasn’t being used to keep track of all the super cool parties I was definitely invited to. I scheduled every free moment and I wasn’t able to turn off the organizing, regimented part of my brain. It was a struggle because I always felt pressure to be doing or achieving something, and I felt guilty when I wasn’t maximizing my time. Trying to relax was actually a stressful experience. Then I took a giant chill pill, just like everyone told me to do, and I was cured! Just kidding. The changes have been super gradual, but I have learned how to relax. Below I’ve shared five self-care practices that have helped me discover the art of relaxation.